As 2026 begins, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor—formerly known as Prince Andrew, Duke of York—faces renewed scrutiny following the U.S. Department of Justice’s December 2025 release of nearly 30,000 pages of Jeffrey Epstein files. These documents include emails suggesting Andrew discussed “inappropriate friends” with Ghislaine Maxwell and pleaded with Epstein to deny emerging allegations. Prosecutors referenced evidence of Andrew’s presence during victim interactions and his alleged knowledge of Maxwell’s recruitment activities, reigniting debates over his Epstein ties despite his consistent denials of wrongdoing.
King Charles III stripped Andrew of his “Prince” title, HRH style, and other honors in October 2025 via Letters Patent, formally renaming him Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. He was also ordered to vacate Royal Lodge, with a move to a smaller Sandringham property planned for early 2026. However, certain titles like Duke of York remain in abeyance, as full removal requires an Act of Parliament—a step not yet taken.
These fresh revelations have amplified cross-party demands in Westminster. Labour MPs, including Rachael Maskell, have revived bills to formally revoke the dukedom, while others call for legislation to strip remaining peerages. Critics argue dormant titles allow Andrew to retain symbolic status and privileges, undermining public trust in the monarchy amid cost-of-living pressures and questions over royal funding.
Supporters of the royals note Andrew’s civil settlement with accuser Virginia Giuffre (who died in 2025) and lack of criminal charges, but victims’ advocates insist accountability is incomplete. As Andrew reportedly struggles with his demotion—insisting staff address him as “Sir”—bipartisan pressure mounts for Parliament to act decisively. With appeals exhausted and Epstein’s shadow lingering, 2026 could see historic legislation ending any lingering royal vestiges for the disgraced figure once eighth in line to the throne.
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